The All-Inclusive Guide to Winter & Holiday Fun in Bend, Oregon (2024)
The All-Inclusive Guide to Winter & Holiday Fun in Bend, Oregon (2024)
Bend, Oregon, transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering everything from snowy outdoor adventures to cozy indoor festivities. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s my ultimate guide to making the most of this special time in Bend.
1. Winter Adventures in Bend
When I crave outdoor fun, Bend delivers in spades. With the earliest snow season since 1998, the mountains are calling, and there’s no shortage of ways for me to enjoy them:
Skiing & Snowboarding: I head to Mt. Bachelor, where pristine powder and stunning mountain views await. The mountain is already open for the season (as of November 17, 2024), offering over 4,300 acres of terrain.
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing: I love exploring the peaceful beauty of Shevlin Park with my dog Lucy or the snow-covered trails along the Cascade Lakes. Many trails lead you to “warming huts” where it is always fun to converse with fellow explorers and take in some stunning panoramic views.
Sledding & Tubing: For family-friendly fun, visit Wanoga Sno-Park or SHARC in Sunriver. Grab a sled and race down the hills surrounded by snow-draped trees!
2. Don’t Miss:
I always make time for these special places and experiences:
Shopping in Downtown Bend: Lined with sparkly-lit trees, downtown Bend offers a unique shopping experience. Mostly locally owned, the array and quality of downtown Bend’s shops are a must-see!
The Old Mill District: This is Bend’s outdoor shopping mall on the river. Old Mill sparkles during the holidays with twinkling lights and festive decor, making it the perfect backdrop for seasonal celebrations. A mix of chain-store favorites, locally owned boutiques, restaurants, and even a movie theater. A walk along the river reveals our popular outdoor Hayden Amphitheater, which comes alive during the summer months.
Outdoor Ice Skating: A short drive to Seventh Mountain takes me to the outdoor rink, open daily through the winter season for skating under the stars. For covered skating, head to The Pavilion, just up from the river in Bend.
3. Bend’s Holiday Happenings
These events bring Bend’s holiday spirit alive:
Bend Christmas Parade: Saturday, December 7, 2024, in downtown Bend. Expect floats, music, and plenty of holiday cheer.
Holiday Lights Paddle Parade: Taking place on Friday, December 20, 2024, this uniquely Bend event features kayaks and canoes decked out in dazzling lights floating down the Deschutes River.
Tree Lighting Celebrations: The Old Mill District and downtown Bend will both host tree-lighting ceremonies the weekend after Thanksgiving. Perfect for getting into the holiday spirit!
Santa’s Visit: Santa will be in the Old Mill District on weekends starting in late November through Christmas Eve, 2024. I make sure to check the schedule for a photo op.
Holiday Artisan Markets: There are several! I check the local Source newspaper magazine for a list of times and locations. They kick off in early December and are a great place to shop for handcrafted gifts from local makers.
4. Warm Up with Bend’s Best Bites & Brews
After a day in the snow, I love cozying up with a delicious meal, a craft beer, or a winter cocktail. Bend’s food scene is as vibrant as its landscapes, and here are some of my favorites:
A Cozy Meal: I indulge in locally sourced, farm-to-table meals at Ariana Restaurant, hearty steaks or burgers at Ranch Butcher Chef, or rustic Italian dishes at Bosa. For a really special experience, head to Redmond for a six-course tasting and wine pairing at Ferm & Faire’s new restaurant, The Chef’s Table. For breakfast favorites, I recommend The Lemon Tree, McKay’s Cottage, and Café Sintra.
Good Coffee: My favorite coffee include: Thump, Looney Bean, or The Commons downtown where locally made coffee, baked goods, & seasonal hot concoctions are plentiful!
Craft Breweries: Seasonal brews like spiced ales and winter warmers await at Bend Brewing Co., 10 Barrel, Good Life, and Crux Fermentation Project just to name a few. Many breweries also have heated outdoor fire pits for a cozy post-adventure drink.
Cozy Wine Bars: I cozy up with a glass of red or a little holiday sparkle at Domaine Serene or Ferm & Faire downtown. Bledsoe and Stoller are my favorites in the Box Factory.
5. Family-Friendly Fun
Creating cherished holiday memories is important to me, and Bend offers plenty of family-friendly activities:
High Desert Museum: Open year-round, the museum features seasonal exhibits and kid-friendly activities. It’s a great way to stay warm while learning about the local environment and wildlife.
Tumalo Creek Rentals: Renting fat bikes, snowshoes, or other winter gear for a family adventure on the trails is a fun way to spend the day.
Visit a Local Tree Farm: Choosing the perfect Christmas tree is part of my family’s traditions. Several nearby farms offer fresh-cut trees in December.
6. New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Bend
Ring in the New Year in style with these celebrations:
Family-Friendly Fun: Bowling alleys and The Pavilion ice rink host kid-friendly New Year’s Eve events with early countdowns.
Live Music & Parties: Local venues like The Domino Room and Volcanic Theatre Pub will feature live performances. I always keep an eye out for Precious Byrd, a favorite local band.
Fireworks at Mt. Bachelor: Enjoying fireworks at Mt. Bachelor on New Year’s Eve is a dazzling way to start 2025 under the stars.
7. Where to Stay
After a day of winter fun, you may want a cozy retreat, and Bend’s lodging options deliver:
Vacation Rentals: I book a cabin with Arrived Now, offering homes equipped with fireplaces and stunning mountain views.
Luxury Stays: Tetherow Resort offers upscale accommodations and amenities, while The Oxford Hotel provides a boutique downtown experience.
Sunriver Resort: This family-friendly destination is ideal for proximity to sledding, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
